PLSCS 4660

PLSCS 4660

Course information provided by the Courses of Study 2015-2016.

Discover the wonder of life underground. In this course, students study the amazing diversity of soil organisms along with their multifaceted functions in terrestrial ecosystems. The fundamental principles and features of biologically mediated processes in the soil and the functions of soil biota in both managed and unmanaged ecosystems are highlighted. Special topics include beneficial symbioses, biological control of plant pathogens, biogeochemistry of unique habitats, bioremediation and composting of organic wastes, among others. Laboratory focuses on molecular activities and traditional methods for assessing the abundance, activity, and diversity of soil organisms.

When Offered Spring.

Prerequisites/Corequisites Prerequisite: one year of biology or ecology or permission of instructor; PLSCS 2600 is desirable.

Course Attribute (CU-SBY)

Outcomes
  • Access, understand and apply concepts in ecology, microbiology, biology and biochemistry as they relate to the study of soil sub-systems.
  • Understand how the soil biota and their activities contribute to global biogeochemistry, plant productivity and environmental quality.
  • Manage the world's soils to enhance ecosystem services provided by the soil biota.
  • Understand and evaluate research articles and research methods.
  • Identify research questions, apply appropriate methods, gather and analyze data, and prepare research reports.

View Enrollment Information

Syllabi: none
  •   Regular Academic Session.  Choose one lecture and one laboratory.

  • 4 Credits Stdnt Opt

  • 16972 PLSCS 4660   LEC 001

  • Prerequisite: one year of biology or ecology and PLSCS 2600 or permission of instructor.

  • 16973 PLSCS 4660   LAB 401

    • W
    • Thies, J